Being cool in a new school can be intimidating at best. It takes a lot of grace, confidence and a good smile to pull it off. If you're attending a new school, follow these 7 steps to help raise your popularity, while steering clear of the title of "snob"
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Be Friendly
Toward everyone, that is. Don't go in, select the popular group, and ignore everyone else. Have one of the first people you meet to show you around and help you get to know everyone.
Talk, but Don't Overdo It
Go ahead and socialize, make your rounds. But whatever you do, don't over-talk it. Pay attention to the person you're talking to. If they are into your conversation, continue on. If, however, they are attempting to get away, or doing the old "texting a friend" trick, you'd better back off. After all, you don't want to be known as the "Annoying locker girl"
Striking the perfect balance between engaging and overbearing is crucial. Remember, every social butterfly was once a caterpillar, so ease into conversations like you're spreading wings for the first time. Show interest by asking open-ended questions that invite more than a yes or no answer, and genuinely listen to their responses. This can lead to more meaningful connections and, who knows, they might just be the link to your next social circle. But always be mindful; it's about quality, not quantity, when laying down the foundations of popularity.
Frequently asked questions
Don't Be Desperate
If you come off as being desperate and needed, you will be less liked. They need to know that you're confident, and comfortable with being yourself. Don't follow people around all the time, and ask to sit with them all the time. Make your rounds, and let them invite you in. Start with an occasional "Hi" in the hallway - and let the rest fall into place.
Being too eager can be off-putting. Show that you have your own life and interests outside of seeking approval. When you do interact, share something interesting or funny without overstepping. If they see you're an individual with your own stories, they'll naturally be curious about you. Remember, genuine friendships take time to blossom, so be patient and let them unfurl at their own pace. Keeping a balance between approachable and independent signals that you're someone who brings value to the table, not someone who's there just to take from others.
Get Involved
Be yourself, but also, choose a club that you will like. For instance, say choir isn't "popular" but you love to sing. Look into Theater and try out for a musical. Who knows, once you're popular, maybe you can start your own club, and make it all about singing! After all, isn't that what the group "Straight No Chaser" done?
Facebook!
Add the new friends you have made to your list on Facebook. Post pictures of you and "your new school" and let them know that you're happy to be there. You can talk about your past school and friends, and even introduce some to each other, but don't obsess over old friends. Let your new friends know you are glad you got acquainted.
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Laugh at Yourself
Nothing shows confidence more than being able to laugh at your own mistakes. Making a mistake is human, and it shows great character that you can admit to making mistakes and laugh your way through them.
When you humorously embrace your own blunders, it puts those around you at ease and draws them closer. It sends the message that you're approachable, relatable, and devoid of pretense. Remember that laughter is contagious—your lightheartedness can quickly turn into shared moments of joy, bonding you with your peers. So, trip in the hallway? Miss the ball during gym class? Instead of blushing, shake it off with a chuckle. Your resilience and good spirits are the hidden gems that make you genuinely likable.
Be Active
Join a school sport you're good at - not the one "most popular" If you're not good at cheerleading, who cares! Join the girl's basketball team!
Being popular is something we all want in school, but being popular doesn't mean we have to snub the un-popular kids. Be a friend to everyone, and who knows, you could be the future homecoming queen! What do you do to make friends and be popular?
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